Craftsman Cordless Brushless 2 Tool Combo Kit

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the tool industry, and their Cordless Brushless 2 Tool Combo Kit (CMCK220D2) is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. This combo kit, which includes a hammer drill and an impact driver, is designed to handle a variety of drilling and fastening tasks with ease. After putting these tools through their paces over the past few weeks, I can confidently say that Craftsman has delivered a solid product that stands up to its reputation.

First Impressions

Straight out of the box, the tools feel robust and well-balanced. The kit includes two 20V lithium-ion batteries, a charger, and a soft storage bag. The batteries come partially charged, so you can get to work almost immediately. The soft bag is a nice touch, providing a convenient way to transport and store the tools, although I found it a bit large for my needs.

Design and Build Quality

The hammer drill and impact driver are both equipped with brushless motors, which promise extended runtime and improved durability. The brushless technology not only makes the tools lighter but also ensures they run cooler, which is a significant advantage during extended use.

One of the standout design features is the placement of the LED work lights at the base of the tools. This strategic positioning eliminates shadows at the end of the bit, providing excellent illumination of the work area. It's a small detail, but it makes a big difference, especially when working in low-light conditions.

The grips on both tools are multi-textured rubber, offering a comfortable and secure hold. This is particularly important when you're working on a lengthy project or in awkward positions. The metal ratcheting chucks on both tools are another highlight, providing excellent bit retention and reducing the chances of slippage.

Performance

The hammer drill is a powerhouse, offering 400 unit watts out of power and up to 34,000 BPM for fast drilling in concrete. I used it to drill several holes in a concrete wall for mounting shelves, and it performed flawlessly. The 3-speed gearbox allows you to optimize speed for different applications, from high-speed drilling to low-speed driving.

The impact driver is equally impressive, delivering 1,700 in-lbs of torque, making it ideal for driving heavy-duty fasteners. I used it extensively for driving screws into wooden studs and even some metal work, and it handled everything I threw at it with ease. The quick-release chuck is a breeze to use, allowing for fast and efficient bit changes.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the most critical aspects of any cordless tool is battery life, and the Craftsman combo kit does not disappoint. The 20V lithium-ion batteries provide ample power and have a built-in charge indicator, so you always know how much juice you have left. During my testing, a single battery lasted through an entire day of intermittent use, including some heavy-duty tasks.

The charger is compact and can be mounted on the wall, which is a nice space-saving feature. It takes about 90 minutes to fully charge a battery, which is reasonable given the power they provide. However, the charger feels a bit flimsy compared to the robust build of the tools themselves.

Usability and Ergonomics

Both tools are well-balanced and comfortable to use, even for extended periods. The variable speed control on the hammer drill is precise and responsive, allowing for fine adjustments based on the task at hand. The impact driver’s three-speed settings are a fantastic feature, offering versatility for a range of applications.

The tools are relatively lightweight, which reduces fatigue during prolonged use. The compact size of the impact driver is particularly useful for working in tight spaces. However, the hammer drill is a bit bulkier, which might be a drawback for some users.

Additional Features

The kit includes VersaTrack hooks, which are a thoughtful addition for those who use the VersaTrack system. However, I would have preferred the inclusion of a belt clip, which would be more universally useful. The lack of a magnetic spot for holding loose screws or a clip to hold additional bits is a minor inconvenience, but not a deal-breaker.

Durability and Warranty

Craftsman backs this combo kit with a three-year warranty, which speaks to their confidence in the product’s durability. The tools feel solid and well-constructed, and I have no reason to doubt their longevity based on my experience so far.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Cordless Brushless 2 Tool Combo Kit is an excellent addition to any workshop or garage. Its combination of power, durability, and thoughtful design features make it a versatile and reliable choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely.

The extended battery life, powerful performance, and user-friendly design make it a standout option in its price range. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of a belt clip and the slightly flimsy charger, these are easily outweighed by the overall quality and functionality of the tools.

If you’re in the market for a new drill and impact driver, the Craftsman combo kit is well worth considering. It offers excellent value for money and is sure to meet the demands of a wide range of tasks.